Building a stronger democratic future requires the vast majority of people to participate actively. At least, that’s what we believe here at We Do Democracy. But new forms of participation don’t just happen on their own. They require new values, habits, and—not least—specific skills on our part as citizens. As a central principle of our manifesto, we believe that democracy is something that must be practiced and should not be taken for granted.
A pilot project focused on young people
As the school’s first target group, we will launch a pilot project aimed at young people in the fall of 2026. This includes both young people who are already actively participating in the debate and those who want practical experience in bringing about change in their own local communities.
The pilot project for young people is being carried out with support from the Honoré Foundation and will run from the fall of 2026 through March 2027. It consists of two independent tracks:
1. Catalyst: For those who drive change
Driving social and political change is a craft. On Katalysator , young participants gain the tools to bring people together around a common cause, understand power dynamics, and build campaigns. The program provides young people with a professional toolkit that strengthens the impact of their initiatives and fosters sustainable communities.
Target audience: Young people aged 16–30 who are participating as part of a youth community or group from across the country and who commit to applying what they learn to their future work on the project or issue.
Capacity: 30 spots for young change-makers.
Format: 2 half-weekends (October 31–November 1 and January 9–10), 2 online meetings, and 3 individual mentoring sessions.
Focus: Both local and national communities working toward a wide range of goals, from improving conditions for young people in rural areas to promoting the rights of nature or enriching cultural life.
Price: Participation is free for young people.
Geography: Classes are held in Copenhagen. For participants from the rest of the country, transportation and lodging are covered.
Instructor: Klara Sørensen, a consultant at We Do Democracy, who has 7 years of experience with political youth organizations such as the Green Youth Movement, the Climate Movement, Jordskred, and Apprentices for Sustainability.
2. Action in Northwest: For young people fighting for a better Northwest
Local action fosters meaningful and lasting learning. Through “Handling i Nordvest,” we support young people in carrying out projects that make a tangible difference in Copenhagen’s Nordvest neighborhood. When young people take the initiative in their own neighborhoods to benefit others, they gain experience and a sense of agency that will empower them for the rest of their lives.
Target audience: Young people in Copenhagen’s Northwest District who want to organize activities for and with others in the neighborhood.
Resources: Direct financial support for youth projects, access to facilities, professional guidance, and a strong local network.
Contents: Targeted instruction tailored to the challenges young people face along the way, such as fundraising, applying for permits, or organizing events.
Timeframe: The projects and activities will be carried out by the young people from October 2026 through February 2027.
Price: Participation is free for young people.
Geography: Classes are held in Copenhagen.
Instructor: Louisa Mathies, a consultant at We Do Democracy, with several years of experience working with climate policy communities and local Northwest projects such as Lommeparken, community dinners, and greening the neighborhood as part of the Renten Transition Northwest project.
School of Democracy for the Future
The pilot project with young people is the first step in a larger strategic initiative. The long-term vision for the School for the Democracy of the Future is to develop targeted educational tracks for many different groups in society, including both volunteers and professionals.
Right now, we are exploring the fundamental learning principles and values that will form the foundation for the school’s future work. At We Do Democracy, we seek an ongoing dialogue with new foundations, professional organizations, and partners who want to develop the democratic education of the future together with us.
Photo: Kamille Funding